Outback Steakhouse on Thursday launched a "Best Steaks Ever" menu across its 662 units, betting that tighter steak specs, a new seasoning and new grilling equipment can sustain a turnaround that has already produced a 1.4% same-store sales gain.

The Bloomin' Onion chain, based in Tampa, has spent months reworking its signature menu item as part of a broader revival plan under CEO Mike Spanos. The upgrades are operational, not cosmetic.

The changes include:

• Tighter specifications on steak sizes across cuts
• A newly developed seasoning blend
• Clamshell grills added to the cooking line
• Expanded steak training, including a new certification test for field leaders

The new lineup features two new cuts — the Down Under Delmonico Ribeye and a New York Strip — alongside the Victoria's Barrel-Cut Filet Mignon, Center-Cut Sirloin and Rockhampton Ribeye.

Who is driving the steak revamp?

Outback gave VP of Research and Development Efrem Cutler the additional title of chief steak officer as part of the campaign. Cutler led the steak program overhaul, including the new seasoning. In the role, he will be "the brand's authority on steak selection, marbling, seasoning, and preparation, helping guests understand what makes a truly great steak," the company said.

Outback President Pat Hafner framed the changes in terms of repeat business, not just plate quality. "From the cuts we serve to the way we season and prepare our steaks, we are now serving a more tender, more flavorful steak and a better overall experience that gives guests more reasons to keep coming back," Hafner said in a statement.

Is the quality push moving the numbers?

Early metrics suggest traction. Last quarter, customer satisfaction with Outback's food rose 4 points and intent to return rose 5 points, the chain reported in August. Same-store sales rose 1.4% over the same period.

The chain is also building a marketing engine around the menu. At select locations, customers can sit in a booth — the "Spokesbooth" — and have their first-bite reactions to the new steaks recorded on camera. Outback will post some of the videos on its social media accounts.

Why quality messaging is spreading

Outback joins a wave of chains publicizing food upgrades to win over choosier consumers. Burger King's revamped Whopper helped drive an 8.5% same-store sales surge in the second quarter. Chili's has posted its own gains by upgrading many core menu items.

For Outback, the steak program is the highest-leverage item on the menu: it touches sourcing specs, seasoning, equipment and labor training at once. If satisfaction and traffic metrics keep climbing, the Best Steaks Ever rollout could serve as the template for the next phase of Spanos' turnaround.